College Seniors Share Their Best Advice for Incoming Freshmen

Freaking out about the next four years? Get some tips for those who've been there.

You've heard it a million times, but we'll say it again: College is a formative experience for everyone. Freshman year in particular is a really big deal, mostly because that's when you're starting to figure it all out. Even though you'll inevitably experience a few bumps and bruises along the way (all-nighters, breakups, a whole bunch of stress), you'll certainly want to milk your undergrad years for all they're worth. So take notes, newbies—below, college seniors share their very best advice for the incoming class.

Patricia G., 23, from Michigan
"Look at college as a time to develop your interests, or even just figure out what they are. In your first week, you'll be swarmed with invitations to join clubs on campus—why not explore your options? I really wish I had participated in more activities. The time flies by, so it's important to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way!"

Sandra P., 22, from Colorado
"See your friends as often as you can. I just graduated and came back to my hometown, and I'm shocked how at difficult it is to keep in touch. If you're lucky, your best friends will be relatively close by, but for most, friends are spread out across the country. It could be months—even years—before you see some of them again, so cherish every moment."

Michelle B., 23, from Maryland
"Network early. Once you're tossed into the job search, you'll regret not putting yourself out there more. Talk to everyone—it may seem a bit early to be planning for your future, but college ends quickly! Get your ducks in a row now."

Shannon W., 22, from California
"If I could do it all over again, I wouldn't have stressed out as much about picking a major. Trust your gut: Things will eventually fall into place! Even if you feel you made the wrong decision, you can always transfer into a different program. Look at it as an opportunity to grow, rather than an anxiety-ridden situation where there are 'right' and 'wrong' paths."

Francine U., 23, from Georgia
"Remember that your family still exists, and call home at least once a week. For my first few months of college, I felt like I was living in a bubble. I was so self-involved and fixated on my experience that I completely neglected my family. It's important that you maintain your connection to home—college won't always be there, but your mom, dad, and siblings will be!"

Sharon D., 23, from Massachusetts
"If I could redo my college experience, I would have recognized my limits early on. Drinking can be fun, but it can also be foolish, which I learned the hard way. Have a good time, but be aware of your surroundings. Try not to embarrass yourself: You have to see these people for four years, after all!"

Alyssa C., 22, from Ohio
"If you attend college with friends from your high school, don't be afraid to branch out. I made this mistake during my freshman year, and it cost me a ton of missed social opportunities. Spread your wings, and make new groups of pals! And yes, participate in all those cheesy 'get to know you' games in your dorm. The interaction may be forced, but it will get the conversation flowing."

Alexandra L., 23, from Wisconsin
"Three words: Live it up. When my parents droned on and on about the realities of working life and how I should take advantage of my college years, I just rolled my eyes. Looking back, I wish I had been less stressed out about the little things. In the grand scheme, one failed test isn't going to make or break your college experience. Learn to relax, and enjoy the ride!"